Environmental Scientist I

The Commonwealth of Kentucky is hiring an Environmental Scientist I in Pikeville, KY, to support the Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement. Responsibilities include inspecting coal mining permits for compliance, issuing orders for violations, and evaluating mining suitability. Candidates should have strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure. This position offers career development opportunities within the Kentucky Energy & Environment Cabinet.
Description

The mission of the Kentucky Energy & Environment Cabinet (EEC) is to improve the quality of life for all Kentuckians by protecting our land, air, and water resources by utilizing our natural resources in an environmentally conscientious manner. We do this by helping families connect with nature and preserving the Commonwealth’s natural heritage; and by supporting innovative, resilient, and sustainable energy solutions that together bring economic benefit to the commonwealth.

If you are looking for a positive work environment and a career where you can make a difference in the environment we live in, then EEC is the cabinet for you. For more information on what our cabinet has to offer, check out our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWSuC43XqlHchYeQ66tP7tg and our Careers page: https://eec.ky.gov/Pages/careers.aspx

The Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement (DMRE) is responsible for inspecting all surface and underground coal mining permits in the state to assure compliance with the 1977 Federal Surface Mining Control Act (SMCRA). By joining the DMRE/Pikeville Branch/Pikeville Enforcement Section I as an Environmental Scientist I, you will have the opportunity to provide technical assistance and oversight regarding surface effects of coal mining to state and federal agencies, local governments, and the general public in the development, interpretation, and implementation of environmental protection, mitigation and natural resource policies.

Holders of the Environmental Scientist I position will complete tasks such as:
• Perform inspections to ensure compliance with all performance standards and frequency requirements
• Issue cessation and non-compliance orders to violators
• Provide assistance using on-site, pre-mining examinations to evaluate the suitability for mining
• Investigate citizens' complaints

Desired candidates possess the following requisite skills or experience applicable to the position:
• Good communication and organizational skills
• Teamwork and initiative
• Attention to detail
• Time management and ability to work under pressure
• Decision-making skills

EEC provides opportunities for development and upward movement. There is room to grow your skillset as you build your career. Come join our team and make an impact in the future of Kentucky. We look forward to reviewing your application.

EEC participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. EEC will only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9. For more information on E-Verify, or if you believe that EEC has violated its E-Verify responsibilities, please contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at 888-897-7781 or https://www.e-verify.gov/

Minimum Requirements

EDUCATION: Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor's degree in a natural, biological or physical science OR Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor's degree including or supplemented by 20 semester hours in a natural, biological or physical science.

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR SKILLS: NONE

Substitute EDUCATION for EXPERIENCE: NONE

Substitute EXPERIENCE for EDUCATION: Experience in natural resources, environmental control, engineering or a related area will substitute for the required education on a year-for-year basis.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (AGE, LICENSURE, REGULATION, ETC.): NONE

Working Conditions

Work is typically performed in an office setting. Incumbents in this class may perform work in the field with frequent travel on a statewide basis. An incumbent in this position may be subject to adverse weather conditions, exposure to snakes and insects, water-borne pathogens, broken glass, rusty metal in streams, and hazards common to operation of electro-fishing equipment, which require the following of safety procedures.